Heavy rains in South Florida have flooded cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Naples. Some areas received up to two feet of rain, prompting a state of emergency. Roads turned into rivers, cars sank, houses were submerged and airports were hit by massive flight disruptions.
What was the reason for the heavy rainfall?
Florida’s weather has been dominated by a pattern of high pressure to the east and low pressure to the west. This system has pulled a deep stream of moisture into the state from Central America and the Caribbean Sea. Jonathan Erdman, senior meteorologist at weather.com, explained how this has led to heavy rainfall.
You are watching: Fort Lauderdale State Of Emergency: Severe Flooding Strikes South Florida After Heavy Rainfall
What impact did this have on airports?
Heavy rains caused chaos at several airports in Florida. More than 900 flights were canceled or delayed at Miami and Fort Lauderdale international airports as of 5:30 p.m. Thursday. More than 1,200 flights were affected on Wednesday. Delays were also reported at other airports, including Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Orlando and Tampa.
What was the scene like in Miami?
See more : Darwin Nunez Ignores Streamer Jack Doherty in Public Encounter
Aerial photographs revealed the extent of the flooding in Miami, particularly in northeast Miami-Dade County. Streets were submerged, cars were scattered, and few people ventured out. Those who did venture out had to wade through water up to their thighs to get to work or other destinations. The scene resembled the aftermath of a disaster movie, with abandoned vehicles littering the streets.
What did the witnesses say?
Tow truck driver Ted Rico described the scene as something out of a zombie movie. He spent hours pulling out vehicles that were stuck or stalled in the floodwaters. Rico described how cars were everywhere – on the sidewalks, in the median and in the middle of the road, creating a chaotic and terrifying atmosphere.
What were the warnings from the authorities?
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniela Levin Cava urged residents to stay safe and stay indoors. At a news conference Thursday morning, she advised people to stay away from flooded areas and remain cautious. Local TV station WPLG broadcast images of stranded cars and ongoing water rescue operations. Officials in Broward and Miami-Dade counties asked people to stay off the roads.
How were emergency services affected?
Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony reported that 911 call centers were overwhelmed with weather-related non-emergency calls. This added pressure to emergency services already stretched thin by the flooding.
Which areas are in an emergency?
See more : Daniil Medvedev Wife: Explore All About Daria Medvedev
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for Miami-Dade, Broward, Lee, Collier and Sarasota counties. Miami-Dade and Broward counties are home to more than 4.5 million people combined. Local officials also declared states of emergency in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Sunny Isles Beach. Schools and summer programs in Broward County were closed Thursday. Florida Atlantic University and Florida A&M moved to remote learning.
How much did it rain?
Some areas received much more rain in 48 hours. In Broward County, Hallandale received 19.39 inches, Hollywood 19.1 inches, Davie 17.97 inches, and Fort Lauderdale 12.84 inches. In Collier County, Big Cypress National Preserve recorded 25.13 inches of rain. In Miami-Dade County, North Miami received 24 inches and Miami Beach received 13.64 inches.
What’s next for Florida?
More rain and flooding is expected, but be expected. Erdman said the moisture pattern should move west by the weekend, reducing the threat of heavy rain. However, there is still the chance for sporadic showers and Florida’s typical summer storms.
Recent flooding has impacted much of South Florida, causing disruption and damage. Residents are advised to stay informed and remain vigilant.
Source: https://th-xuyenmoc.edu.vn
Category: News